August 29th, 2024 , Doors will be at 5:45 p.m. The program will begin at 6:00 pm and run until approximately 7:30 pm

Bentley Historical Library, University of Michigan

1150 Beal Avenue Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2113

$30.00 per person

This event is limited to just 30 guests.

The Detroit History Club is delighted to offer a unique opportunity to our members: a journey into the stacks of the world-renowned Bentley Historical Library.

Guests will learn more about the archive and how it works, followed by an exclusive tour guided by expert Bentley archivists . The Bentley team has generously agreed to pull several significant Detroit items from the archives, allowing us to view treasures not typically on display. From the records of the Detroit Housewives League to the maps that guided the city's transit expansion, from famous figures to infamous oddities, and the political, financial, and entertainment moments that have shaped Michigan's trajectory, this tour promises a captivating exploration.

The Bentley Historical Library, nestled at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, was founded in 1935. Its primary mission is to document and preserve the history of the state of Michigan and the University of Michigan—including the activities of U-M faculty, students, and alumni. Named after Alvin M. Bentley, a Michigan congressman and philanthropist, the library boasts an extensive collection of manuscripts, photographs, maps, books, and other historical materials.

The library's collection encompasses personal papers, official university records, and materials from Michigan's political, social, economic, and cultural history. Over the decades, it has expanded through donations and acquisitions, becoming an invaluable resource for researchers delving into Michigan’s past. 

We hope you'll join us for this unparalleled access to one of Michigan's greatest research archives.

Important Information:

There is free parking in the Bentley parking lot to the south of the building, and at that time there will also be free parking in the lot across the street (to the west of the building). You will not need permits for either lot. 

Video recording is prohibited. 

Personal still photography is welcome. 

The building is ADA compatible, however please be prepared to walk, stand, and traverse stairs to best enjoy this event.

We are delighted to welcome guests who require wheelchairs or other mobility assistance and will work hard to ensure the best possible experience. For specific mobility questions please email Office@detroithistorytours.com.

All guests must be 21 years of age or older

All guests must be a member of The Detroit History Club, in good standing, to attend this event.

If you are not yet a member, you can still buy tickets to an event: Simply use member number “000” when you add the event tickets to your cart. Then add the corresponding number of Detroit History Club memberships before check out. Our team will match your new membership number(s) to your event ticket(s) once it’s been assigned.

Membership to The Detroit History Club is $5.00 per person per calendar year.

Your order confirmation email will serve as your only ticket- nothing will ship to your address. Please save your email and be prepared to show it on your phone or printed to enter the event. The ticketed guests name(s) will also be on a check in sheet when you arrive. (We do this to avoid the ticketing fees that come along with ticketing systems. The price of your ticket will remain the same throughout checkout with no added fees or service charges.)

All tickets and events are non-refundable and non-exchangeable.

Bentley Historical Library

University of Michigan

1150 Beal Avenue

Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2113